Joan Ferner facts for kids

Eleanor Joan Ferner (15 March 1933 – 10 June 2020) was an important New Zealander. She worked to make things fair for women and was a public servant. A public servant is someone who works for the government to help the country.

Who Was Joan Ferner?

Joan Ferner was born in Vancouver, Canada, on 15 March 1933. She moved to New Zealand in the 1950s. This happened after she met her husband, who was from New Zealand, while she was in Canada.

In 1978, Joan became a naturalised New Zealand citizen. This means she officially became a citizen of New Zealand, even though she was born in another country.

Working for Fairness and Equality

Joan Ferner worked as a policy advisor for the New Zealand government. A policy advisor helps the government make decisions and create rules.

She strongly believed in women's rights. This means she worked hard to make sure women had the same chances and treatment as men. She focused on several key areas:

• Equal pay: Making sure women were paid the same as men for doing the same job.
• Economic independence: Helping women be able to earn their own money and manage their finances.
• Access to higher education: Making it easier for women to go to university and get advanced schooling.

Joan was also very active in groups that supported women. These included the Federation of University Women and the National Council of Women. These groups work to improve the lives of women in New Zealand.

Recognised for Her Work

In the year 2000, Joan Ferner received a special award. It was called the Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit. This award is given to people who have done great things for New Zealand and its community. Joan received it for her important work helping women.

Later Life

Joan Ferner passed away in Wellington, New Zealand, on 10 June 2020.